X-ray system and method for producing X-ray image data

ABSTRACT

An X-ray imaging method includes performing an X-ray exposure via an X-ray radiation source responsive to a source controller. The method also includes sampling X-ray image data via a digital detector without communication of timing signals from the source controller. The method further includes combining the sampled X-ray image data of at least one imaging frame or two or more imaging frames with at least one of the frames spanning a duration in which the exposure occurred, to produce X-ray image data capable of being reconstructed into a user-viewable image.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The subject matter disclosed herein relates to X-ray imaging systems andmore particularly to X-ray imaging system using digital detectors.

The advent of digital X-ray detectors has brought enhanced workflow andhigh image quality to medical imaging. However, many of the earlierradiographic imaging systems employ conventional X-ray imaging usingfilm and/or computed radiography. In order to obtain images from thesesystems, the imaging medium must be transported and processed after eachexposure, resulting in a time delay in obtaining the desired images.Digital radiography provides an alternative that allows the acquisitionof image data and reconstructed images on the spot for quicker viewingand diagnosis. However, the cost of replacing the earlier conventionalradiographic imagining systems with digital radiographic imaging systemsmay be imposing to a hospital or tertiary care medical center. Hence,the need to retrofit the earlier radiographic imaging systems fordigital radiography in a cost effective manner involving as fewcomponents of the systems as possible.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with one embodiment, an X-ray imaging method includesperforming an X-ray exposure via an X-ray radiation source responsive toa source controller. The method also includes sampling X-ray image datavia a digital detector without communication of timing signals from thesource controller. The method further includes combining the sampledX-ray image data of at least one imaging frame or two or more imagingframes with at least one of the frames spanning a duration in which theexposure occurred, to produce X-ray image data capable of beingreconstructed into a user-viewable image.

In accordance with another embodiment, an X-ray imaging method includesperforming an X-ray exposure via an X-ray radiation source. The methodalso includes sampling X-ray image data via a digital detector without apriori knowledge of beginning and ending times of the X-ray exposure.The method further includes determining beginning and ending frames ofthe X-ray image data. The method yet further includes combining thesampled X-ray image data of at least one imaging frame or two or moreimaging frames with at least one of the frames spanning a duration inwhich the exposure occurred, to produce X-ray image data capable ofbeing reconstructed into a user-viewable image.

In accordance with a further embodiment, the X-ray imaging systemincludes an X-ray radiation source, a source controller coupled to thesource and configured to command X-ray emission of X-rays for imageexposures, and a digital X-ray detector configured to sample X-ray imagedata without communication from the source controller. The system alsoincludes a portable detector control device configured to communicateinstructions to the detector for acquisition of the X-ray image data andto receive the X-ray image data from the detector for processing andpreview. At least one of the detector, the portable detector controldevice, and a processing system in communication with the detectorand/or the portable detector control device is configured to combine thesampled X-ray image data of at least one imaging frame or two or moreimaging frames with at least one of the frames spanning a duration inwhich the exposure occurred, to produce X-ray image data capable ofbeing reconstructed into a user-viewable image.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the presentinvention will become better understood when the following detaileddescription is read with reference to the accompanying drawings in whichlike characters represent like parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary fixed X-ray system,equipped in accordance with aspects of the present technique;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary mobile X-ray system,equipped in accordance with aspects of the present technique;

FIG. 3 is a diagrammatical overview of the X-ray system in FIGS. 1 and2;

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatical representation of functional components in adetector of the system of FIGS. 1-3;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the two-way interaction between thedetector and a portable detector control device, in accordance withaspects of the present technique;

FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of a method for workflow between the detectorand the portable detector control device, in accordance with aspects ofthe present technique;

FIG. 7 is a diagrammatical representation of sampling X-ray image datafrom two imaging frames, in accordance with aspects of the presenttechnique;

FIG. 8 is a diagrammatical representation of sampling and combiningX-ray image data from three imaging frames, in accordance with aspectsof the present technique;

FIG. 9 is a diagrammatical representation of sampling and combiningX-ray image data from one imaging frame, in accordance with aspects ofthe present technique;

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a method for sampling and combining X-rayimage data to produce X-ray image data capable of being reconstructedinto a user-viewable image, in accordance with aspects of the presenttechnique;

FIG. 11 is a diagrammatical representation of workflow during anacquisition sequence in which both image data and offset data areacquired for producing user-viewable images, in accordance with aspectsof the present technique;

FIG. 12 is a diagrammatical representation of an acquisition sequence inwhich different voltages are applied to reduce transistor leakage whilesampling image data, in accordance with aspects of the presenttechnique; and

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of a method for sampling data from thedetector prior to and after an X-ray exposure while applying differentvoltages to reduce transistor leakage, in accordance with aspects of thepresent technique.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring generally to FIG. 1, an X-ray system is represented,referenced generally by reference numeral 10. In the illustratedembodiment, the X-ray system 10, as adapted, is a digital X-ray system.The X-ray system 10 is designed both to acquire image data and toprocess the image data for display in accordance with the presenttechnique. Throughout the following discussion, however, while basic andbackground information is provided on the digital X-ray system used inmedical diagnostic applications, it should be born in mind that aspectsof the present techniques may be applied to digital detectors, includingX-ray detectors, used in different settings (e.g., projection X-ray,computed tomography imaging, tomosynthesis imaging, etc.) and fordifferent purposes (e.g., parcel, baggage, vehicle and part inspection,etc.).

In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the X-ray system 10 includes animaging system 12. The imaging system 12 may be a conventional analogimaging system, retrofitted for digital image data acquisition andprocessing as described below. In one embodiment, the imaging system 12may be a stationary system disposed in a fixed X-ray imaging room, suchas that generally depicted in and described below with respect toFIG. 1. It will be appreciated, however, that the presently disclosedtechniques may also be employed with other imaging systems, includingmobile X-ray units and systems in other embodiments. The imaging system12 includes an overhead tube support arm 14 for positioning a radiationsource 16, such as an X-ray tube, and a collimator 18 with respect to apatient 20 and a detector 22. The detector 22 includes a digital X-raydetector. In some embodiments, the detector 22 may be selected from aplurality of detectors 22, represented by detector 24, from a dock 26(e.g., charging dock). Each detector 22 of the plurality of detectors 22may be labeled and designed for a particular type of imaging (e.g.,fluoroscopic and radiographic imaging). The detector 22 is configured toacquire X-ray image data without communication from a controller of theX-ray radiation source 16. In other words, the detector 22 is withoutcommunication of timing signals from the controller of the source 16 asto an X-ray exposure. As a result, in preparation for acquiring X-rayimage data the detector 22 is configured to continuously sample dataprior to and during an X-ray exposure. Also, the detector 22 isconfigured to combine multiple frames that include imaging data togenerate X-ray images. In addition, the detector 22 is configured to atleast partially process X-ray image data.

In one embodiment, the imaging system 12 may be used in consort with oneor both of a patient table 28 and a wall stand 30 to facilitate imageacquisition. Particularly, the table 28 and the wall stand 30 may beconfigured to receive detector 22. For instance, detector 22 may beplaced on an upper, lower or intermediate surface of the table 28, andthe patient 20 (more specifically, an anatomy of interest of the patient20) may be positioned on the table 28 between the detector 22 and theradiation source 16. Also, the wall stand 30 may include a receivingstructure 32 also adapted to receive the detector 22, and the patient 20may be positioned adjacent the wall stand 30 to enable the image data tobe acquired via the detector 22. The receiving structure 32 may be movedvertically along the wall stand 30.

Also depicted in FIG. 1, the imaging system 12 includes a workstation34, display 36, and printer 37. In one embodiment, the workstation 34may include or provide the functionality of the imaging system 12 suchthat a user 38, by interacting with the workstation 34 may controloperation of the source 16 and detector 22. In other embodiments, thefunctions of the imaging system 12 may be decentralized, such that somefunctions of the imaging system 12 are performed at the workstation 34(e.g., controlling operation of the source 16, while other functions(e.g., controlling operation of the detector 22) are performed byanother component of the X-ray system 10, such as a portable detectorcontrol device 40. The portable detector control device 40 may include apersonal digital assistant (PDA), palmtop computer, laptop computer,smart telephone, tablet computer such as an iPad™, or any suitablegeneral purpose or dedicated portable interface device. The portabledetector control device 40 is configured to be held by the user 38 andto communicate wirelessly with the detector 22. It is noted that thedetector 22 and portable detector control device 40 may utilize anysuitable wireless communication protocol, such as an IEEE 802.15.4protocol, an ultra wideband (UWB) communication standard, a Bluetoothcommunication standard, or any IEEE 802.11 communication standard.Alternatively, the portable detector control device may be configured tobe tethered or detachably tethered to the detector 22 to communicate viaa wired connection.

The portable detector control device 40 is also configured tocommunicate instructions (e.g., detector operating mode) to the detector22 for the acquisition of X-ray image data. In turn, the detector 22 isconfigured to prepare for an X-ray exposure in response to instructionsfrom the portable detector control device 40, and to transmit a detectorready signal to the device 40 indicating that the detector 22 isprepared to receive the X-ray exposure. The device 40 may also beconfigured to communicate patient information or X-ray techniqueinformation to the detector 22. Similar to the detector 22, the device40 may be without communication from the controller of the X-ray source16. Further, the portable detector control device 40 is configured toreceive X-ray image data from the detector 22 for processing and imagereconstruction. Indeed, both the detector 22 and the portable detectorcontrol device 40 are configured to at least partially process the X-rayimage data. However, in certain embodiments, the detector 22 and/or theportable detector control device 40 are configured to fully process theX-ray image data. Also, the detector 22 and/or the device 40 isconfigured to generate a DICOM compliant data file based upon the X-rayimage data, patient information, and other information. Further, thedetector 22 and/or the device 40 is configured to wirelessly transmit(or via a wired connection) processed X-ray image data (e.g., partiallyor fully processed X-ray image data) to an institution image review andstorage system over a network 42. The institution image review andstorage system may include a hospital information system (HIS), aradiology information system (RIS), and/or picture archivingcommunication system (PACS). In some embodiments, the institution imagereview and storage system may process the X-ray image data. In oneembodiment, the workstation 34 may be configured to function as a serverof instructions and/or content on a network 42 of the medical facility.The detector 22 and/or device 40 are also configured to transmit, via awired or wireless connection, processed X-ray images to the printer 37to generate a copy of the image.

The portable detector control device 40 includes a user-viewable screen44 and is configured to display patient data and reconstructed X-rayimages based upon X-ray image data on the screen 44. The screen 44 mayinclude a touch-screen and/or input device (e.g., keyboard) configuredto input data (e.g., patient data) and/or commands (e.g., to thedetector). For example, the device 40 may be used to input patientinformation and other imaging related information (e.g., type of source16, imaging parameters, etc.) to form a DICOM image header. In oneembodiment, the patient information may be transferred from a patientdatabase via a wireless or wired connection from the network or theworkstation 34 to the device 40. The detector 22 and/or device mayincorporate the information for the image header with the X-ray image togenerate the DICOM compliant data file. Also, the device 40 may be usedto navigate X-ray images displayed on the screen 44. Further, the device40 may be used to modify the X-ray images, for example, by addingposition markers (e.g., “L”/“R” for left and right, respectively) ontothe image. In one embodiment, metal markers may be placed on thedetector 22 to generate position markers.

In one embodiment, the imaging system 12 may be a stationary systemdisposed in a fixed X-ray imaging room, such as that generally depictedin and described above with respect to FIG. 1. It will be appreciated,however, that the presently disclosed techniques may also be employedwith other imaging systems, including mobile X-ray units and systems, inother embodiments.

For instance, as illustrated in the X-ray system of FIG. 2, the imagingsystem 12 may be moved to a patient recovery room, an emergency room, asurgical room, or any other space to enable imaging of the patient 20without requiring transport of the patient 20 to a dedicated (i.e.,fixed) X-ray imaging room. The imaging system 12 includes a mobile X-raybase station 39 and detector 22. Similar to above, the imaging system 12may be a conventional analog imaging system, retrofitted for digitalimage data acquisition and processing. In one embodiment, a support arm41 may be vertically moved along a support column 43 to facilitatepositioning of the radiation source 16 and collimator 18 with respect tothe patient 20. Further, one or both of the support arm 41 and supportcolumn 43 may also be configured to allow rotation of the radiationsource 16 about an axis. Further, the X-ray base station 39 has awheeled base 45 for movement of the station 39. Systems electroniccircuitry 46 with a base unit 47 both provides and controls power to theX-ray source 16 and the wheeled base 45 in the imaging system 12. Thebase unit 47 also has the operator workstation 34 and display 36 thatenables the user 38 to operate the X-ray system 10. The operatorworkstation 34 may include buttons, switches, or the like to facilitateoperation of the X-ray source 16. Similar to the X-ray system 10 in FIG.1, the system 10 includes the portable control device 40. The detector22 and portable control device 40 are as described above. In the X-raysystem, the patient 20 may be located on a bed 49 (or gurney, table orany other support) between the X-ray source 16 and the detector 22 andsubjected to X-rays that pass through the patient 20 and are received bythe detector 22.

FIG. 3 is a diagrammatical overview of the X-ray system 10 in FIGS. 1and 2 illustrating the components of the system 10 in more detail. Theimaging system 10 includes the X-ray radiation source 16 positionedadjacent to a collimator 18. Collimator 18 permits a stream of radiation48 to pass into a region in which a subject 20, such as a human patient20, is positioned. A portion of the radiation 50 passes through oraround the subject 20 and impacts the digital X-ray detector 22. Asdescribed more fully below, detector 22 converts the X-ray photonsreceived on its surface to lower energy photons, and subsequently toelectric signals which are acquired and processed to reconstruct animage of the features within the subject 20.

The source 16 is coupled to a power supply 52 which furnishes power forexamination sequences. The source 16 and power supply 52 are coupled toa source controller 54 configured to command X-ray emission of X-raysfor image exposures. As mentioned above, the detector 22 is configuredto acquire X-ray image data without communication from the sourcecontroller 54. Instead, the detector 22 is responsive to the portabledetector control device 40 configured to communicate instructions thedetector 22 for acquisition of the X-ray image data. In addition, theportable detector control device 40 is configured to receive the X-rayimage data from the detector 22 for processing and imagingreconstruction.

The detector 22 includes a wireless communication interface 56 forwireless communication with the device 40, as well as a wiredcommunication interface 58, for communicating with the device 40 when itis tethered to the detector 22. The detector 22 and the device may alsobe in communication with the institution image review and storage systemover the network 42 via a wired or wireless connection. As mentionedabove, the institution image review and storage system may include PACS60, RIS 62, and HIS 64. It is noted that the wireless communicationinterface 56 may utilize any suitable wireless communication protocol,such as an ultra wideband (UWB) communication standard, a Bluetoothcommunication standard, or any 802.11 communication standard. Moreover,detector 22 is coupled to a detector controller 66 which coordinates thecontrol of the various detector functions. For example, detectorcontroller 66 may execute various signal processing and filtrationfunctions, such as for initial adjustment of dynamic ranges,interleaving of digital image data, and so forth. The detectorcontroller 66 is responsive to signals from the device 40. The detectorcontroller 66 is linked to a processor 68. The processor 68, thedetector controller 66, and all of the circuitry receive power from apower supply 70. The power supply 70 may include one or more batteries.

Also, the processor 68 is linked to detector interface circuitry 72. Thedetector 22 converts X-ray photons received on its surface to lowerenergy photons. The detector 22 includes a detector array 74 thatincludes an array of photodetectors to convert the light photons toelectrical signals. Alternatively, the detector 22 may convert the X-rayphotons directly to electrical signals. These electrical signals areconverted to digital values by the detector interface circuitry 72 whichprovides the values to the processor 68 to be converted to imaging dataand sent to the device 40 to reconstruct an image of the features withinthe subject 20. In one embodiment, the detector 22 may at leastpartially process or fully process the imaging data. Alternatively, theimaging data may be sent from the detector 22 to a server to process theimaging data.

The processor 68 is also linked to an illumination circuit 76. Thedetector controller 66, in response to a signal received from the device40, may send a signal to the processor 68 to signal the illuminationcircuit 76 to illuminate a light 78 to indicate the detector 22 isprepared to receive an X-ray exposure in response to the signal. Indeed,in response to a signal from the device 40, the detector 22 may beturned on or awoken from an idle state. Alternatively, the detector 22may be turned on directly or awoken from an idle state by the user(e.g., pressing an on/off button located on the detector 22).

Further, the processor is linked to a memory 80. The memory 80 may storevarious configuration parameters, calibration files, and detectoridentification data. In addition, the memory 80 may store patientinformation received from the device 40 to be combined with the imagedata to generate a DICOM compliant data file. Further, the memory 80 maystore sampled data gathered during the imaging mode as well as X-rayimages. As mentioned above, in some embodiments, the device 40 mayconduct the image processing and incorporate a DICOM header to generatea DICOM compliant data file.

FIG. 4 is a diagrammatical representation of functional components ofdigital detector 22. As illustrated, detector control circuitry 84receives DC power from a power source, represented generally atreference numeral 86. Detector control circuitry 84 is configured tooriginate timing and control commands for row and column electronicsused to acquire image data during data acquisition phases of operationof the system. Circuitry 84 therefore transmits power and controlsignals to reference/regulator circuitry 88, and receives digital imagepixel data from circuitry 88.

In a present embodiment, detector 22 consists of a scintillator thatconverts X-ray photons received on the detector surface duringexaminations to lower energy (light) photons. An array of photodetectorsthen converts the light photons to electrical signals which arerepresentative of the number of photons or the intensity of radiationimpacting individual pixel regions or picture elements of the detectorsurface. In certain presently contemplated, the X-ray photons may bedirectly converted to electrical signals. Readout electronics convertthe resulting analog signals to digital values that can be processed,stored, and displayed, such as on device 40 following reconstruction ofthe image. In a present form, the array of photodetectors is formed ofamorphous silicon. The array of photodetectors or discrete pictureelements is organized in rows and columns, with each discrete pictureelement consisting of a photodiode and a thin film transistor. Thecathode of each diode is connected to the source of the transistor, andthe anodes of all diodes are connected to a negative bias voltage. Thegates of the transistors in each row are connected together and the rowelectrodes are connected to the scanning electronics as described below.The drains of the transistors in a column are connected together and theelectrode of each column is connected to an individual channel of thereadout electronics.

As described in greater detail below, the detector control circuitry 84is configured to sample data from the discrete picture elements prior toand during receipt of X-ray radiation. Also, the detector controlcircuitry 84 is configured to apply a first voltage to transistors ofthe discrete picture elements prior to receipt of X-ray radiation (e.g.,when the detector 22 maintains idle mode). Additionally, the detectorcontrol circuitry 84 is configured to sample data from the discretepicture elements in preparation for acquisition of X-ray image datawhile applying a second voltage, higher than the first voltage, totransistors of the discrete picture elements not then being sampledprior to receipt of X-ray radiation. Sampled data collected prior toreceipt of the X-ray radiation may be stored by the detector controlcircuitry 84 for use in reconstruction of a user-viewable image from theX-ray image data. Further, the detector control circuitry 84 isconfigured to sample data, including X-ray image data, from the discretepicture elements during receipt of X-ray radiation while applying thesecond voltage to the transistors of the discrete picture elements notthen being sampled. Following termination of the receipt of X-rayradiation the detector control circuitry is configured to resumeapplication of the first voltage to the transistors of the discretepicture elements.

Turning back to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 4, by way of example,a row bus 90 includes a plurality of conductors for enabling readoutfrom various rows of the detector 22, as well as for disabling rows andapplying a charge compensation voltage to selected rows, where desired.A column bus 92 includes additional conductors for commanding readoutfrom the columns while the rows are sequentially enabled. Row bus 90 iscoupled to a series of row drivers 94, each of which commands enablingof a series of rows in the detector 22. Similarly, readout electronics96 are coupled to column bus 92 for commanding readout of all columns ofthe detector.

In the illustrated embodiment, row drivers 94 and readout electronics 96are coupled to a detector panel 98 which may be subdivided into aplurality of sections 100. Each section 100 is coupled to one of the rowdrivers 94, and includes a number of rows. Similarly, each column driver96 is coupled to a series of columns. The photodiode and thin filmtransistor arrangement mentioned above thereby define a series of pixelsor discrete picture elements 102 which are arranged in rows 104 andcolumns 106. The rows and columns define an image matrix 108, having aheight 110 and a width 112.

As also illustrated in FIG. 4, each picture element 102 is generallydefined at a row and column crossing, at which a column electrode 114crosses a row electrode 116. As mentioned above, a thin film transistor118 is provided at each crossing location for each picture element, asis a photodiode 120. As each row is enabled by row drivers 94, signalsfrom each photodiode 120 may be accessed via readout electronics 96, andconverted to digital signals for subsequent processing and imagereconstruction. Thus, an entire row of picture elements 102 in the arrayis controlled simultaneously when the scan line attached to the gates ofall the transistors 118 of picture elements 102 on that row isactivated. Consequently, each of the picture elements 102 in thatparticular row is connected to a data line, through a switch, which isused by the readout electronics to restore the charge to the photodiode120.

It should be noted that in certain systems, as the charge is restored toall the picture elements 102 in a row simultaneously by each of theassociated dedicated readout channels, the readout electronics isconverting the measurements from the previous row from an analog voltageto a digital value. Furthermore, the readout electronics may transferthe digital values from rows previous to the acquisition subsystem,which will perform some processing prior to displaying a diagnosticimage on a monitor or writing it to film.

The circuitry used to enable the rows may be referred to in a presentcontext as row enable or field effect transistor (FET) circuitry basedupon the use of field effect transistors for such enablement (rowdriving). The FETs associated with the row enable circuitry describedabove are placed in an “on” or conducting state for enabling the rows,and are turned “off” or placed in a non-conducting state when the rowsare not enabled for readout. Despite such language, it should be notedthat the particular circuit components used for the row drivers andcolumn readout electronics may vary, and the present invention is notlimited to the use of FETs or any particular circuit components.

As mentioned above, the detector 22 is without communication from thesource controller 54 and, thus, is without a priori knowledge of thebeginning and ending times of an exposure. In one embodiment, thedetector 22 is configured to keep detecting the beginning and ending ofthe X-ray exposure automatically and form an X-ray image withoutcommunication with the detector control device 40. In anotherembodiment, the detector 22 is configured to stay in idle power mode andswitch to imaging power mode after receiving a command from the detectorcontrol device 40. The detector 22 starts detecting the beginning andending of the X-ray exposure after it is switched into full power mode.This results in a unique workflow dynamic between the X-ray system 12,detector 22, and portable detector controller device 40 as illustratedin FIGS. 5 and 6. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the two-wayinteraction between the detector 22 and the portable detector controldevice 40. FIG. 5 illustrates the imaging system 12 with the patient 20located on the table 28 between the X-ray source 16 and the detector 22.Here again, imaging system 12 may be a fixed or mobile system. FIG. 6 isa flow diagram of a method 124 for workflow between the detector 22 andthe portable detector control device 40. To begin, the user turns on thedetector 22 (block 126). The detector 22 maintains an idle mode in theon condition. As illustrated in FIG. 5, the detector 22 is locatedbeneath the subject 20. Prior to or subsequent to turning on thedetector 22, the user inputs patient information or other information(e.g., X-ray technique) related to the imaging (e.g., parameters of theimage) into the device 40 (block 128). In some embodiments, the detectorcontrol device 40 may transmit the information to the detector 22, e.g.,to form the DICOM compliant data file. In some other embodiments, theDICOM compliant data file is formed in the detector control device 40 sothat no need to transfer the patient information to the detector 22.

The user commands a detector preparation signal from the device 40 tothe detector 22 (block 130). Once the detector 22 receives the commandto prepare from the device 40, the detector 22 prepares for theacquisition of X-ray image data. Specifically, the detector 22 switchesfrom the idle mode to imaging power mode and begins scrubbing (i.e.,preparing and refreshing the detector circuitry) the panel of thedetector 22 to equilibrate the panel. After scrubbing, the detector 22reads or acquires one or more offset frames prior to exposure. Inparticular, the detector 22 prepares for exposure by initiating samplingof data from a matrix of detector elements. After preparation, thedetector 22 sends to the device 40 the detector ready signal (block132). In one embodiment, the detector 22 may also provide a visibleindication (e.g., flashing light) or an audio indication to indicate thedetector is ready. In another embodiment, the detector control device 40may provide a visible indication and/or audio indication. The user thencommands the X-ray radiation source 16 to perform an X-ray exposure viathe source controller 54 coupled to the source 16 (block 134).

During and after the exposure, the detector 22 samples data from thematrix of detector elements. In certain embodiments, the detector 22 atleast partially processes the X-ray image data (block 136).Alternatively, the detector 22 may completely process the X-ray imagedata. Processing includes determining when the exposure begins and endsbased upon comparison of the sampled image data generated by thedetector 22. As described in greater detail below, the sampled imagedata may be collected from one or more frames and combined to generatethe reconstructed image. The detector 22 ceases sampling afterdetermining the end of the exposure and after sampling all of the X-rayimage data from the frames. After and during the exposure, the detectorcontrol device 40 acquires X-ray image data from the detector 22 (block138) upon which the detector 22 shifts from imaging power mode to idlemode. In certain embodiments, the device 40 at least partially processesthe X-ray image data (block 140). In some embodiments, the device 40completely processes the X-ray image data. Alternatively, the device 40acquires completely processed X-ray image data from the detector. Inother embodiments, neither the detector 22 nor the device 24 completelyprocess the X-ray image data, but send the X-ray image data to theinstitution image review and storage system for subsequent processing.

As seen in FIG. 5, a reconstructed image 122 based upon the X-ray imagedata is displayed (block 142) on the screen 44 of the device 40. Indeed,the reconstructed image 122 may be displayed on the device 40 while theimaging subject 20 is present in a location wherein the X-ray image datais acquired. After displaying the image 122 on the device 40, the userdetermines whether the image is acceptable (block 144). If the image isnot acceptable due to positioning issues, the imaging subject 20 may berepositioned (block 146) for a further exposure. If the image isacceptable, the user may select the interested portion of image, add the“L” and/or “R” position mark, and transmit the processed X-ray imagedata to the institution image review and storage system (block 148) viathe detector 22 and/or device 40.

Since the detector 22 is without communication of timing signals fromthe source controller 54 as to performance of the exposure via thesource 16, the detector samples data prior to, during, and after theexposure from one or more frames (e.g., offset and imaging frames). Thelength of an X-ray exposure is dependent on numerous factors such as thetype of X-ray examination and the size of the imaging subject. Incertain instances, the exposure may overlap frames and the sampled X-raydata from at least two imaging frames may need to be combined. However,to do this beginning and ending frames that span at least the durationof the exposure need to be determined.

FIG. 7 is a diagrammatical representation of sampling and combiningX-ray image data when the exposure occurs in a single readout orsampling period. FIG. 7 illustrates multiple frames 150 obtained fromsampling the matrix of detector elements. The frames 150 include offsetframes 152 and 154 and imaging frames 156 and 158. The offset-correctedX-ray image is generated by combining sampled data from imaging frames156 and 158 with sampled data (e.g., offset data from offset frame 152)gathered prior to obtaining imaging frame 156. Offset frame 152 isacquired prior to the initiation of the exposure. Offset frame 154 isacquired after the exposure ends and the frames 150 include no moreimage data. Neither of the offset frames 152 and 154 includes imagedata.

To determine the beginning and ending of the exposure and the imagingdata, a row average of each frame 150 is obtained. The row averagereflects the average amount of charge restored to each detector elementwithin a row of detector elements of the detector array to fully chargethe detector elements. Plot 159 from top to bottom indicates the rowaverage of each row along the frames 150. The row average in offsetframe 152 and a top portion 160 of imaging frame 156 is negligible, asindicated by portion 162 of the plot 159 since no exposure has occurredand the detector elements remain fully charged. The beginning and endingof the exposure is marked by lines 164 and 166, respectively. At line164, 0 percent of the exposure (i.e., percent of length of totalexposure) has occurred, while 100 percent of the exposure has occurredat line 166. Correspondingly, during the exposure, the row averagelinearly increases, indicated by portion 168 of the plot 159, as therows are sequentially read within region 170. More specifically, the rowaverage increases in portion 168 because each subsequent row is exposedto a greater percentage of the exposure and the detector elements withinthose rows require the restoration of more charge. For example, thefirst row read after the exposure begins may be subjected to 10 percentof exposure before being read, while the last row read may be subjectedto 100 percent of the exposure before being read.

Since the exposure ended within a single sampling or reading period,both imaging frames 156 and 158 include image data indicated by thecross-hatched regions 172 and 174, respectively. Flat portion 176 ofplot 159 indicates the rows in regions 178 and 180 of imaging frames 156and 158, respectively, have been exposed to 100 percent of the exposureprior to being read. Lines 182 and 184 indicate the beginning and endingof reading rows in region 186 of frame 158 corresponding to region 170of frame 156. As indicated by portion 188 of the plot 159, the rowaverage linearly decreases as the rows are sequentially read withinregion 186. More specifically, the row average decreases in region 186because each subsequent row was exposed to a lesser percent of theexposure after the initial reading of the rows in region 170 of readingframe 156. In other words, the row average in region 186 reflects imagedata from residual exposure subsequent to the last reading of the rows.For example, the first row read in region 180 of frame 158 may have beensubjected to 90 percent of the exposure after the initial reading of thefirst row in region 170 of frame 156, while the last row read in region180 may have been subjected to 0 percent of exposure after the initialreading of the last row in region 170 of frame 156. Portion 190 of plot159 indicates the row average 156 in a bottom portion 192 of imagingframe 158 and the offset frame 154 is negligible since the detectorelements have been recharged since last being read. As a result, bydetermining the row average, the beginning and ending of the exposuremay be determined as well as the beginning and ending of the imagingdata.

To obtain the X-ray image all of the frames 150 including image data(e.g., frames 156 and 158) are combined (i.e., added). To obtain theoffset-corrected X-ray image, the total number of frames 150 used tomake the X-ray image (e.g., two, frames 156 and 158) are multiplied timethe calculated offset image (e.g., offset frame 152) and subtracted fromthe X-ray image to form the offset corrected X-ray image.

The row average may also be used when the exposure spans more than onereading or sampling period. FIG. 8 is a diagrammatical representation ofsampling and combining X-ray image data when the exposure occurs overtwo readout or sampling periods. Similar to FIG. 7, FIG. 8 illustratesmultiple frames 150 obtained from sampling the matrix of detectorelements. The frames 150 include offset frames 194 and 196 and imagingframes 198, 200, and 202. Offset frame 194 is acquired prior to theinitiation of the exposure. Offset frame 196 is acquired after theexposure ends and the frames 150 include no more image data. As above,neither of the offset frames 194 and 196 includes image data.

As in FIG. 7, a row average is obtained for each frame 150 in FIG. 8.Plot 204 from top to bottom indicates the row average of each row alongthe frames 150. The row average in offset frame 194 and a top portion206 of imaging frame 198 is negligible, as indicated by portion 208 ofthe plot 204 since no exposure has occurred and the detector elementsremain fully charged. The beginning and ending of the exposure is markedby lines 210 and 212, respectively. At line 210, 0 percent of theexposure has occurred, while 100 percent of the exposure has occurred atline 212. As illustrated, the exposure spans two sampling periods and,thus, two imaging frames 198 and 200. Similar to FIG. 7, FIG. 8 includesrow averages that linearly increase as indicated by portion 214 of theplot 204 corresponding to regions 216 and 218 of imaging frames 198 and200. Also, flat portion 220 of plot 204 corresponds to region 222 ofimaging frame 200 and indicates those rows are exposed to 100 percent ofexposure prior to being read. Portion 220 is far shorter than portion176 of FIG. 7 because the exposure in FIG. 8 was longer and spanned morethan one imaging frame meaning fewer rows of detector elements wereexposed to 100 percent of the exposure prior to being read. Further,portion 224 of plot 204, corresponding to regions 226 and 228 ofrespective imaging frames 200 and 202, includes row averages thatlinearly decrease. Portions 214 and 224 of include lesser slopes thanportions 168 and 188 of plot 159 in FIG. 7 due to the longer exposure inFIG. 8.

Due to the longer exposure extending two sampling periods, imagingframes 198, 200, and 202 include image data indicated by cross-hatchedregions 230, 232, and 234, respectively. As above, by determining therow average, the beginning and ending of the exposure may be determinedas well as the beginning and ending of the imaging data.

To obtain the X-ray image all of the frames 150 including image data(e.g., frames 198, 200, and 202) are combined (i.e., added). To obtainthe offset-corrected X-ray image, the total number of frames 150 used tomake the X-ray image (e.g., three, frames 198, 200, and 202) aremultiplied time the calculated offset image (e.g., offset frame 194) andsubtracted from the X-ray image.

Alternatively, the X-ray exposure may occur between readout periods.FIG. 9 is a diagrammatical representation of sampling X-ray image datawhen the exposure occurs after the end of one readout period but beforethe start of the next readout. As above, FIG. 9 illustrates multipleframes 150 obtained from sampling the matrix of detector elements. Theframes 150 include offset frames 221 and 223 and imaging frame 225.Offset frame 221 is acquired prior to the initiation of the exposure.Offset frame 223 is acquired after the exposure ends and the frames 150include no more image data. Neither of the offset frames 221 and 223includes image data. As in FIGS. 7 and 8, a row average is obtained foreach frame in FIG. 9. Plot 227 from top to bottom indicates the rowaverage of each row along the frames 150. The row average in offsetframe 221 is negligible since no exposure has occurred and the detectorelements remain fully charged. The beginning and ending of the exposureis marked by lines 229 and 231, respectively. As illustrated, theexposure occurred between readouts of the frames 221 and 225. Thus,portion 233 of plot 227 indicates all of the rows are exposed to 100percent of the exposure prior to being read. As a result, the image dataindicated by cross-hatched region 235 is located with a single frame 225and there is no need to combine the imaging frame 225 with any otherframe. To obtain the offset-corrected X-ray image, the calculated offsetimage (e.g., offset frame 221) is subtracted from the X-ray image (e.g.,frame 225).

Increases in electronic noise may occur in combining sampled X-ray imagedata from multiple frames (e.g., at least two imaging frames) to produceX-ray image data capable of being reconstructed into a user-viewableimage. For example, assuming the X-ray image is obtained by combiningthree imaging frames with the same offset, for a given pixel p_(i,j)where O_(i,j) represents the offset value, the final value of the pixel,{circumflex over (p)}_(i,j), is represented by the following formula:{circumflex over (p)} _(i,j) =p _(i,j) ⁽¹⁾ +p _(i,j) ⁽²⁾ +p _(i,j)⁽³⁾−3O _(i,j).  (1)The mean and variance of the electronic noise are represented byE{{circumflex over (p)}_(i,j)} and E{[{circumflex over (p)}_(i,j)]²},respectively, in the following formulas where:E{{circumflex over (p)} _(i,j) }=E{p _(i,j) ⁽¹⁾ +p _(i,j) ⁽²⁾ +p _(i,j)⁽³⁾−3O _(i,j)}=0  (2)andE{[{circumflex over (p)} _(i,j)]² }=E{[p _(i,j) ⁽¹⁾]² +[p _(i,j) ⁽²⁾]²+[p _(i,j) ⁽³⁾]²[3O _(i,j)]²}=(3+9)σ².  (3)Since, as shown above, the electronic noise has zero mean and the 4values p_(i,j) ⁽¹⁾, p_(i,j) ⁽²⁾, p_(i,j) ⁽³⁾, and O_(i,j) areindependent of each other, the electronic noise of the x-ray image bycombining N offset corrected images with the same offset becomes:√{square root over ((N+N ²)σ²)}=√{square root over (1+1/N)}Nσ  (4)where σ represents the standard deviation.

Another way of reducing the electronic noise is to use different offsetsfor each of the imaging frames. In that case, the electronic noise ofthe final image becomes:√{square root over (2N)}σ.  (5)

A further way to reduce electronic noise is to use the averaged offsetfor the reading frames. Assume that the offset is obtained by averagingM dark frames (i.e., offset frames). The noise of the offset is

$\begin{matrix}{\frac{1}{\sqrt{M}}\sigma} & (6)\end{matrix}$and the noise of the combined image is√{square root over (N+N ² /M ^(σ))}.  (7)

Equation (7) is less than equation (5) when M>N. Thus, when the numberof imaging frames combined are fewer (e.g., N=2) the averaged offset ispreferred. However, when the imaging frames combined are greater, thenusing the same offset or separate offsets may be preferred.

FIG. 10 is a flow diagram of a method 236 for sampling and combiningX-ray image data to produce X-ray image data capable of beingreconstructed into a user-viewable image that incorporates thetechniques described above. The method 236 includes preparing thedetector 22 (block 238). Preparation of the detector 22 may includebeginning sampling data (e.g., offset data) prior to and independentlyof initiation of an exposure. Following preparation of the detector 22,the method 236 includes performing an X-ray exposure via the X-rayradiation source 16 (block 240), where the X-ray source is responsive tothe source controller 54. After initiation of the exposure, sampling ofX-ray image data occurs via the detector 22 without a priori knowledgeof the beginning and ending times of the X-ray exposure (i.e., withoutcommunication of timing signals from the source controller 54) (block242) Indeed, sampling X-ray image data may occur during the X-rayexposure. The method 236 further includes determining beginning andending frames (e.g., imaging frames) of the X-ray image data (block244). The beginning and ending frames at least span the duration inwhich the exposure occurred. As mentioned above, the exposure may occurduring a single imaging frame, but the X-ray image data may be onmultiple imaging frames. Thus, the beginning and ending frames maycontain data sampled during the duration in which the exposure occurredand data sampled outside of the duration in which the exposure occurred.In particular, the beginning and ending frames are determined bycomparison of sampled data of at least the respective and ending frames.As indicated above, the beginning and ending frames are determined byidentifying a changed in the sampled data values (e.g., row average)indicative of exposure to X-ray radiation.

Yet further, the method 236 includes combining the sampled X-ray imagedata of at least two imaging frames, where at least one of the framesspans the duration in which the exposure occurred, to produce X-rayimage data capable of being reconstructed into a user-viewable image(block 246). As mentioned above, X-ray image data capable of beingreconstructed into a user-viewable image may be produced by generatingoffset corrected image data based upon data sampled from the at leasttwo imaging frames. For example, the offset corrected image data isgenerated by combining sampled data prior to a beginning imaging framewith data sampled from the at least two imaging frames as describedabove. Further, combining the sampled X-ray image data of the at leasttwo imaging frames includes selecting a combination method based upon anoise parameter. In other words, as described above, the calculation ofthe noise will depend on the number of imaging frames and offset frames(i.e., offset frames) sampled prior to and during the occurrence of theexposure to select the proper equation from those noted above to reduceelectronic noise when combining the sampled data from more than oneframe.

The above techniques are illustrated in FIG. 11, a diagrammaticalrepresentation of workflow during an acquisition sequence in which bothimage data and offset data are acquired for producing user-viewableimages. FIG. 11 includes an acquisition sequence 248 of the detector 22corresponding to the interaction between the detector 22, portabledetector control device 40, the operator or user 38, and the X-raysource 16. The detector 22, device 40, and operation of the source 16are as described above. While the detector 22 is in idle mode,represented by region 250 of the sequence 248, the operator 38configures the source 16 as indicated by arrow 252. Configuring thesource 16 may include setting exposure parameters and the type ofexposure. Also, while the detector 22 remains in idle mode, the operatormay position the imaging subject and the source 16. Further, theoperator 38 enters instructions into device 40, as indicated by arrow254, and sends instructions 256 to the detector 22 to prepare forexposure.

Upon receiving the instructions to prepare for acquisition of X-rayimage data, the detector 22 enters imaging power mode 258. The detector22 begins by scrubbing the panel, as indicated by region 260 of theacquisition sequence 248, to equilibrate the circuitry on the panel.Then, the detector 22 reads one or more offset frames from the panel(e.g., region 262), upon which the detector 22 sends a detector readysignal 264 to the device 40. In one embodiment, the device 40 provides avisual indication to indicate the ready state of the detector 22. Inanother embodiment, the device 40 provides an audio indication. In afurther embodiment, the device 40 provides both video and audioindications. In a yet further embodiment, the detector 22 provides avisual indication (e.g., flashing LED) to indicate the ready state ofthe detector 22. In another embodiment, the detector 22 provides anaudio indication. Yet in another embodiment, the detector 22 providesboth video and audio indications. The operator 38 receives the readysignal on the device 40, as indicated by arrow 266. Once the detector 22is ready, the detector 22 begins continuously sampling or reading framesas indicated by region 268 of the acquisition sequence 248 to detect anexposure. At any time, the operator may initiate the exposure, asindicated by arrow 270, from the source 16. Upon initiation of theexposure, the detector 22 receives the X-ray radiation 272 from thesource 16. The detector 22 samples the frames to determine the beginningand ending frames that span the exposure (e.g., frames 274 and 276).After termination of the exposure, the detector 22 may process theacquired image data and send a preview of a reconstructed image,indicated by arrow 278, to the device 40 for viewing by the operator 38.Alternatively, the data may be sent to the device 40 for furtherprocessing and the generation of the reconstructed image. After theexposure ends, the detector 22 reverts back to idle mode as indicated byregion 280 of the acquisition sequence 248.

As mentioned above, the detector 22 shifts from an idle mode to animaging power mode. In the imaging power mode, the detector 22continuously reads the panel, since the detector 22 lacks a prioriknowledge (or data) of when the exposure may occur. Thus, reading orsampling of data from the panel occurs during the exposure. Transistors(e.g., FETs) of discrete picture elements then being sampled are in aconducting state when the rows are enabled for readout. However, leakage(e.g., FET leakage) may occur from those transistors of discrete pictureelements not then being sampled (i.e., transistors are in anon-conducting state when the rows are not enabled for readout).Increasing the voltage (V_(off)) to maintain the transistors not thenbeing sampled in a non-conductive state may reduce FET leakage. However,reduction of the leakage may not persist if the transistors are biasedfor a while due to bias age.

FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate embodiments of techniques to overcome theseissues. FIG. 12 is a diagrammatical representation of an acquisitionsequence 282 in which different voltages are applied to reducetransistor leakage while sampling image data, particularly duringexposure. The acquisition signal 282 of FIG. 12 is the same asacquisition signal 248 described in FIG. 11. The acquisition signal 282includes regions 250 and 280 where the detector 22 maintains an idlemode. In addition, the acquisition signal 282 includes regions where thedetector 22 scrubs the panel (e.g., region 260) and periods of samplingor reading the panel (e.g., regions 262 and 268). The detector 22applies a first voltage 284 (e.g., less negative V_(off)) to thetransistors of the discrete picture elements when the detector 22maintains an idle mode (e.g., regions 250 and 280). Thus, the detector22 applies the first voltage 284 to the transistors of the discretepicture elements prior to receipt of X-ray radiation (e.g., region 250).The detector 22 applies a second voltage 286 (e.g., more negativeV_(off)) to the transistors of the discrete picture elements not thenbeing sampled when the detector 22 shifts to imaging power mode 258(e.g., regions 260, 262, and 268) and begins sampling data from thediscrete picture elements. In one embodiment, the first voltage 284 maybe applied, instead of the second voltage 286, while scrubbing the panel(i.e., region 260). The application of the second voltage 286 to thetransistors of the discrete picture elements not then being sampled alsooccurs during receipt of X-ray radiation by the detector 22. Upontermination of sampling X-ray data from the discrete picture elements(e.g., region 280), the detector 22 reapplies the first voltage 284 tothe transistors of the discrete picture elements after termination ofthe receipt of X-ray radiation by the detector 22.

The second voltage 286 is more negative than the first voltage 284. Thesecond voltage 286 may be at least approximately 1.3 times the firstvoltage 284. For example, the first voltage 284 may be equal to or lessnegative than approximately −11 volts. The second voltage 286 may beequal to or more negative than approximately −15 volts. The first andsecond voltages 284 and 286 maintain the transistors in a non-conductivestate. By maintaining the second voltage 286 only during the imagingpower mode 258 and shifting to the first voltage 284 in idle mode (e.g.,regions 250 and 280), the transistor leakage may be reduced while alsoavoiding bias age.

FIG. 13 is a flow diagram of a method 288 for sampling data from thedetector prior to and after an X-ray exposure while applying differentvoltages to reduce transistor leakage. The method 288 includes applyingthe first voltage 284 to transistors of the discrete picture elements(e.g., when detector 22 maintains idle mode) (block 290). Whilepreparing for the acquisition of X-ray image data, the method 288includes sampling data from the discrete picture elements while applyingthe second voltage 286 to the transistors of the discrete pictureelements not then being sampled, where the second voltage 286 is morenegative than the first voltage 284 (block 292). Upon sampling datawhile applying the second voltage 286, the detector 22 may store sampleddata prior to receipt of the X-ray radiation for use in reconstructionof a user-viewable image from the X-ray image data (block 294). Also,the method 288 includes receiving X-ray radiation on the detector 22from the X-ray source 16 (block 296). After exposure, sampling of X-rayimage data from the discrete picture elements occurs while applying thesecond voltage 286 to the transistors of the discrete picture elementsnot then being sampled (block 298). Sampling of data from the discretepicture elements also occurs during receipt of X-ray radiation, whileapplying the second voltage 286 to the transistors of the discretepicture elements not then being sampled. After termination of receipt ofX-ray radiation, the detector 22 terminates sampling of X-ray image datafrom the discrete picture elements (block 300) and re-applies the firstvoltage 284 to the transistors of the discrete picture elements (block302), for example, during the transition to idle mode. As mentionedabove, transistor leakage may be reduced while also avoiding bias age bymaintaining the second voltage 286 only during the imaging power modeand shifting to the first voltage 284 in idle mode.

Technical effects of the embodiments include providing methods andsystems to allow for the retrofitting of conventional X-ray systems byreplacing cassettes with a digital X-ray detector. In retrofitting theX-ray systems, the digital X-ray detector does not communicate with theX-ray imaging system. Instead, the detector communicates with a portabledetector control device to receive instructions. Since the detector doesnot communicate with the X-ray system, the detector lacks dataindicating the timing signals for an X-ray exposure. Thus, the detectorin preparation for and during an exposure may continuously read thepanel of the detector. The detector may include techniques to determinethe beginning and ending of the exposure and imaging data, gather andcombine X-ray image data from multiple frames, while reducing factorsthat may adversely affect the quality of the image (e.g., electricalnoise and transistor leakage).

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention,including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in theart to practice the invention, including making and using any devices orsystems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope ofthe invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examplesthat occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intendedto be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elementsthat do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if theyinclude equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differencesfrom the literal languages of the claims.

1. An X-ray imaging method, comprising: performing an X-ray exposure viaan X-ray radiation source responsive to a source controller; samplingX-ray image data via a digital detector without communication of timingsignals from the source controller; combining the sampled X-ray imagedata of at least one imaging frame or two or more imaging frames with atleast one of the frames spanning a duration in which the exposureoccurred, to produce X-ray image data capable of being reconstructedinto a user-viewable image.
 2. The method of claim 1, comprisinggenerating an image frame where the X-ray exposure occurs between imagereading of two consecutive frames.
 3. The method of claim 1, comprisingdetermining beginning and ending frames that span at least the durationin which the exposure occurred.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein eachof the beginning and ending frames contain data sampled during theduration in which the exposure occurred and data sampled outside of theduration in which the exposure occurred.
 5. The method of claim 3,wherein the beginning and ending frames are determined by comparison ofsampled data of at least the respective beginning and ending frames. 6.The method of claim 5, wherein the beginning and ending frames aredetermined by identifying a change in sampled data values indicative ofexposure to X-ray radiation.
 7. The method of claim 1, comprisingpreparing the detector by sampling data prior to the exposure.
 8. Themethod of claim 7, wherein preparing the detector comprises beginningsampling of detector data prior to and independently of initiation ofthe exposure.
 9. The method of claim 1, comprising producing X-ray imagedata capable of being reconstructed into a user-viewable image bygenerating offset corrected image data based upon data sampled from theat least one imaging frame.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein theoffset corrected image data is generated by combining sampled data priorto a beginning image frame with data sampled from the at least oneimaging frames.
 11. The method of claim 1, wherein combining the sampledX-ray image data of the two or more imaging frames comprises selecting acombination method based upon a noise parameter.
 12. The method of claim11, wherein the noise parameter is based upon a number of imaging framesthat at least span the duration in which the exposure occurred, and anumber of imaging frames sampled prior to initiation of the exposure.13. An X-ray imaging method, comprising: performing an X-ray exposurevia an X-ray radiation source; sampling X-ray image data via a digitaldetector without a priori knowledge of beginning and ending times of theX-ray exposure; determining beginning and ending frames of the X-rayimage data; and combining the sampled X-ray image data of at least oneimaging frame or two or more imaging frames with at least one of theframes spanning a duration in which the exposure occurred, to produceX-ray image data capable of being reconstructed into a user-viewableimage.
 14. The method of claim 13, comprising sampling X-ray image dataduring the X-ray exposure.
 15. The method of claim 13, wherein thebeginning and ending frames contain data sampled during the duration inwhich the exposure occurred and data sampled outside of the duration inwhich the exposure occurred.
 16. The method of claim 13, wherein thebeginning and ending frames are determined by comparison of sampled dataof at least the respective beginning and ending frames.
 17. The methodof claim 16, wherein the beginning and ending frames are determined byidentifying a change in sampled data values indicative of exposure toX-ray radiation.
 18. The method of claim 13, comprising preparing thedetector by sampling data prior to the exposure.
 19. The method of claim18, wherein preparing the detector comprises beginning sampling ofdetector data prior to and independently of initiation of the exposure.20. The method of claim 13, comprising producing X-ray image datacapable of being reconstructed into a user-viewable image by generatingoffset corrected image data based upon data sampled from the at leastone imaging frame.
 21. The method of claim 20, wherein the offsetcorrected image data is generated by combining sampled data prior to thebeginning image frame with data sampled from the at least one imagingframe.
 22. The method of claim 13, wherein combining the sampled X-rayimage data of the two or more imaging frames comprises selecting acombination method based upon a noise parameter.
 23. The method of claim22, wherein the noise parameter is based upon a number of imaging framesthat at least span the duration in which the exposure occurred, and anumber of imaging frames sampled prior to initiation of the exposure.24. An X-ray imaging system comprising: an X-ray radiation source; asource controller coupled to the source and configured to command X-rayemission of X-rays for image exposures; a digital X-ray detectorconfigured to sample X-ray image data without communication from thesource controller; and a portable detector control device configured tocommunicate instructions to the detector for acquisition of the X-rayimage data and to receive the X-ray image data from the detector forprocessing, image reconstruction, and image preview; wherein at leastone of the detector, the portable detector control device, and aprocessing system in communication with the detector and/or the portabledetector control device is configured to combine the sampled X-ray imagedata of at least one imaging frame or two or more imaging frames with atleast one of the frames spanning a duration in which the exposureoccurred, to produce X-ray image data capable of being reconstructedinto a user-viewable image.
 25. The system of claim 24, whereinproducing X-ray image data capable of being reconstructed into auser-viewable image comprises generating offset corrected image databased upon data sampled from the at least one imaging frame.
 26. Thesystem of claim 25, wherein the offset corrected image data is generatedby combining sampled data prior to a beginning frame with data sampledfrom the at least one imaging frame.
 27. A digital X-ray detectorcomprising: circuitry configured to sample X-ray image data withoutcommunication from timing signals from a source controller, wherein thesource controller is configured to command X-ray emissions of X-ray froman X-ray radiation source for image exposures, and to combine thesampled data of at least one imaging frame with at least one of theframes spanning a duration in which an X-ray exposure occurred toproduce X-ray image data capable of being reconstructed into auser-viewable image.
 28. The digital X-ray detector of claim 27, whereinthe circuitry is configured to combine the sampled data of two or moreimaging frames with at least one of the frames spanning the duration inwhich the exposure occurred to produce X-ray image data capable of beingrecontructed into the user-viewable image.
 29. The digital X-raydetector of claim 28, wherein combining the sampled X-ray image data ofthe two or more imaging frames comprises selecting a combination methodbased upon a noise parameter.
 30. The digital X-ray detector of claim29, wherein the noise paramater is based upon a number of imaging framesthat at least span the duration in which the exposure occurred, and anumber of imaging frames sampled prior to initiation of the exposure.31. The digital X-ray detector of claim 27, wherein the circuitry isconfigured to generate an image frame where the X-ray exposure occursbetween image reading of two consecutive frames.
 32. The digital X-raydetector of claim 27, wherein the circuitry is configured to determinebeginning and ending frames that span at least the duration in which theexposure occurred.
 33. The digital X-ray detector of claim 32, whereineach of the beginning and ending frames contain data sampled during theduration in which the exposure occurred and data sampled outside theduration in which the exposure occurred.
 34. The digital X-ray detectorof claim 32, wherein the circuitry is configured to determine thebeginning and ending frames by comparing sampled data of at least therespective beginning and ending frames.
 35. The digital X-ray detectorof claim 34, wherein the circuitry is configured to determine thebeginning and ending frames by indentifying a change in the sampled datavalues indicative of exposure to X-ray radiation.
 36. The digital X-raydetector of claim 27, wherein the circuitry is configured to prepare thedetector by sampling data prior to the exposure.
 37. The digital X-raydetector of claim 36, wherein the circuitry is configured to beginsampling of detector data prior to and independently of initiation ofthe exposure.
 38. The digital X-ray detector of claim 27, wherein thecircuitry is configured to produce X-ray image data capable of beingreconstructed into a user-viewable image by generating offset correctedimage data based upon data sampled from the at last one imaging frame.39. The digital X-ray detector of claim 38, wherein the offset correctedimage data is generated by combining sampled data prior to a beginningimage frame with data sampled from the at least one imaging frame.